Rachel Hodis

Unconventional Art: Beyond the Canvas

Unconventional Art

Art doesn’t need to be confined to traditional mediums like canvas and oil paint. Creative artists continually explore new horizons and unconventional art forms. From coffee grounds to plastic bags, these mediums are inspiring and innovative. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of alternative, unconventional art!


Trash Art

This form of art involves using discarded materials such as plastic, metal, and paper to create sculptures, installations, and other works of art. A notable artist is Tom Deininger, who creates intricate pieces using trash. Oftentimes, trash art is used to make a statement about the impact of pollution in our world.


Coffee Grounds Painting

Using coffee grounds as a painting medium adds texture and a unique sepia tone to artwork. Experiment with mixing coffee grounds with water, to vary the concentration and create different shades. Apply your coffee grounds to canvas or paper to create a unique piece.


Melted Crayon Art

Melted crayon art involves using heat to melt crayons onto a canvas, creating vibrant and abstract drips of color. Artists can use a hairdryer or heat gun to control the flow of melted wax.


Altered Books

Transforming old books into works of art, altered book artists cut, fold, paint, and collage pages to create three-dimensional sculptures. This form of mixed media art allows for a unique blend of literature and visual creativity.


Digital Collage

Artists can create collages and art pieces using digital tools and software. Another form of digital art known as GIF art involves the use of animated images to convey a message or evoke emotions. This medium allows for a dynamic and interactive artistic experience.


Sign Up for Art Lessons Today!

Sign up for art lessons with our expert art instructor today! Our art lessons are for students of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you’re a complete beginner or hoping to prepare for art school admissions, we have the right instructor for you! Learn more by calling or emailing us today!

by
Drew M. Hodis

Exploring the World of Digital Art

Exploring the World of Digital Art

Digital art is a form of art that is created using digital technology. It encompasses a wide range of styles and genres, from digital paintings and illustrations to photo manipulations and 3D modeling. Digital art is becoming increasingly popular, as it offers artists a wide range of creative possibilities and allows them to share their work with a global audience.


Embracing Technology in Artistic Expression

Technology can be a powerful tool for artistic expression. Digital art tools allow artists to create new and innovative forms of art, and to experiment with different techniques in ways that would not be possible with traditional art forms.

For example, digital artists can use layers to create complex compositions, and they can use undo/redo functions to experiment with different ideas without having to start over from scratch. They can also use digital effects and filters to create unique and eye-catching visuals.

In addition, digital art tools make it easy for artists to share their work with the world. Artists can post their work on social media, submit it to online galleries, or even sell it online. This gives artists a much wider reach than they would have with traditional art forms.


The Benefits of Digital Art

There are many benefits to using digital art tools, including:

  • Versatility: Digital art tools can be used to create a wide range of art styles, from realistic paintings to abstract illustrations.
  • Flexibility: Digital art is easy to edit and manipulate, which gives artists a lot of flexibility in their work.
  • Affordability: There are many free and open-source digital art programs available, making it affordable for anyone to get started with digital art.

Accessibility: Digital art programs are available for a variety of platforms, including computers, tablets, and smartphones. This makes it easy for artists to create digital art wherever they are.


Different Types of Digital Art

There are many different types of digital art, including:

  • Digital painting: Digital painting is the creation of art using a digital painting program. Digital painting programs allow artists to create realistic and painterly effects using their computer.
  • Digital illustration: Digital illustration is the creation of art using a vector graphics editor. Vector graphics editors allow artists to create sharp and scalable images that can be used for a variety of purposes, such as logos, icons, and web graphics.
  • Photo manipulation: Photo manipulation is the process of editing and manipulating existing photos. Photo manipulation artists can use a variety of techniques to create new and creative images, such as adding or removing objects, changing the colors, or merging different photos together.
  • 3D modeling: 3D modeling is the process of creating three-dimensional models of objects and scenes. 3D models can be used to create video games, movies, animated films, and other digital content.


Getting Started with Digital Art

If you are interested in getting started with digital art, here are a few tips:

  1. Choose a digital art program. There are many different digital art programs available, both free and paid. Some popular options include Adobe Photoshop, Procreate, Clip Studio Paint, and Krita.
  2. Learn the basics of your chosen program. Once you have chosen a digital art program, you need to learn the basics of how to use it. This includes learning how to use the different tools, brushes, and filters. There are many tutorials available online and in books.
  3. Start practicing. The best way to learn digital art is by practicing. Experiment with different techniques and see what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes.

Share your work. Once you have created some digital art that you are proud of, share it with the world! You can post it on social media, submit it to online galleries, or even sell it online.


Conclusion

Digital art is an exciting and rewarding medium for artistic expression. It offers artists a wide range of creative possibilities and allows them to share their work with a global audience. If you are interested in learning more about digital art, there are many resources available online and in libraries.


Sign Up for Digital Art Lessons Today!

Sign up for Digital Art lessons with our expert art instructor today! Our art lessons are for students of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you’re a complete beginner or hoping to prepare for art school admissions, we have the right instructor for you! Learn more by calling or emailing us today!

by
Rachel Hodis

Art Lessons for All Ages

Art lessons for all ages

Whether you’re an adult looking for a new hobby, a parent seeking to engage your child in something they love, or a high schooler hoping to go to art school, art lessons can be valuable for students of all ages.

Art for Children

Children can benefit greatly from art lessons. Art can help foster their creativity, enhance motor skills, boost their confidence, and encourage self-expression from a young age.

Art for Teenagers

Art lessons can provide teenagers a productive outlet for expression, an opportunity to develop a portfolio for college applications, and a potential career path for those interested in art-related fields. It’s also a fantastic outlet for stress and can improve mental health.

Art for Adults

For adults, art lessons offer a way to de-stress, unwind, and explore a new hobby. Older adults in particular might find art lessons beneficial for improving cognitive function, improving mental well-being, reducing stress, offering a sense of accomplishment, and a newfound outlet for creativity and self-expression. Art can also be an opportunity for social engagement with an instructor and peers.

Get Started Now

Art lessons don’t have to be an expensive extracurricular activity; start with a medium like illustration which only requires a few inexpensive tools. Another low-cost way to get started with art lessons is to use tools you already have. Maybe you were given a camera, but you never learned to use it. Photography lessons can teach you the basics of using your camera and taking photos.

Whatever age you are, art lessons can be an exciting, engaging way to express yourself and gain new skills!


Art Lessons for Every Age at Hodis Learning & Music

Hodis Learning & Music provides high-quality art instruction to students of all ages, helping them embark on their unique artistic journey to enrich their lives and bring them joy, creativity, and personal growth.

Learn more about the art mediums we offer here, and call or email us to schedule your first session today! 

by
Drew M. Hodis
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Services for Self-Determination Program Enrollees at Hodis Learning & Music

expert services for self-determination program clients

Is your student receiving support from the Department of Developmental Services’ Self-Determination Program (SDP)? It’s now easier than ever for SDP enrollees to work with Hodis Learning & Music! Learn more about why we may be a great fit for your student and how to get started with our services.

Is Hodis Learning & Music Right for My Student?

All of our expert educators are specifically selected for their years of experience working with students who have developmental differences as well as their expertise, patience, and kindness Our educators serve students with:

  • autism spectrum disorders,
  • intellectual disabilities,
  • cerebral palsy,
  • epilepsy, and
  • other related conditions.

What Types of Services Are Covered

We have experience providing academic tutoring, music lessons, and art instruction to SDP enrollees. However, which type(s) of services the SDP will cover for your student depends on your student’s specific needs. We can provide guidance based on our previous SDP students’ successes in obtaining coverage.

How It Works

If you’re enrolled in the SDP, then the process is simple!

  • The student’s family arranges with the regional center to have our services covered by the SDP
  • We sign a contract with the student’s financial management service (FMS)
  • The student’s family signs a contract with us
  • We submit timesheets to the FMS on a bimonthly basis on behalf of the student’s family

Additional Considerations

There are three important considerations detailed in the FMS’s contract with us:

  • The FMS only pays for services that fall under the scope of the contract that they send to us. So, if the original contract stipulated academic tutoring services, then your student cannot get music lessons covered by the SDP unless a new contract is drawn and signed.
  • The FMS only pays for services rendered. So, if a student cancels a session within 24 hours, then the student’s family is responsible for the full price of the canceled session.
  • The FMS designates a specific budget for the use of Hodis Learning & Music services. If the student uses more than the specified budget in a given month, then the student’s family is responsible for any overage.

Sign Up for Academic Tutoring, Music Lessons, or Art Instruction Today!

Learn more or schedule your first session by calling or emailing us today.

by
Rachel Hodis

Oil Painting Demystified: Getting Started with Oils

Oil Painting Demystified: Getting Started With Oils

In this blog, we’re demystifying oil painting for beginners! If you’ve ever seen the textures and vibrant colors in an oil painting, and wondered how to create your own masterpiece, you’re in the right place.

Oil painting is a timeless art form. Today, we’ll unravel the mysteries of oil painting and provide you with essential tips and techniques to start your oil painting journey with confidence.

1. Master the Basics of Oil Painting

Begin with a simple subject and a limited color palette. This will help you develop foundational techniques that you can expand on as you become more skilled.

2. Use High-Quality Materials

Invest in good quality oil paints, brushes, and canvas. Better materials can make a significant difference in the outcome of your paintings. Visit an art store and talk to employees to get recommendations, or research online.

3. Prepare Your Canvas Properly

Before you start, apply a thin layer of gesso to prepare your canvas. This layer creates a smooth surface and keeps oil from seeping into the canvas.

4. Understand Color Mixing

Start with primary colors (red, blue, and yellow) and experiment with mixing them to create secondary and tertiary colors. It’s also helpful to learn color theory and how to mix colors.

5. Limit Your Color Palette

Limit your color palette to a few main colors when starting out. This will make it easier to control your mixes and learn about color relationships. It can also be less overwhelming and help you focus your painting.

6. Begin With Thin Layers

Start with a small amount of paint mixed with linseed oil or turpentine to create thin layers. This technique will help you to control your painting and allows the paint to dry faster.

7. Try Out Different Brushes

Play around with various brush sizes, shapes, and bristle types. Each brush has unique qualities and produces different textures and strokes. This will allow you to create more detailed and interesting paintings.

8. Work From Dark to Light

Start with filling in the dark areas of your painting and slowly work your way up to using lighter tones. This creates depth and dimension in your artwork.

9. Allow Time for Drying

Oil paints take a longer time to dry compared to other painting mediums. Be patient and let each layer dry fully before applying another layer or making adjustments.

10. Practice and Experiment

The key to improving your oil painting skills is practice. It’s important to experiment and learn from any mistakes you make. Part of the fun of oil painting is enjoying the process!

Practice Oil Painting With an Expert Educator

With time, patience, and dedication, you will develop your unique style and technique. Hodis Learning & Music also has expert art educators who can help you on your oil painting journey. Learn more or schedule your first session by calling or emailing us today.

by
Rachel Hodis

Drawing Tips for Beginners

Drawing Tips for Beginners

This blog post filled with drawing tips for beginners will help you learn the basics and improve your skills. Jumpstart your artistic journey today!

Practice Simple Shapes

Simple shapes like circles, squares, ovals, and triangles are the basis for all drawings. It’s important to practice these foundational skills so you can eventually draw more complex shapes and images.

Start with Pencil

Pencil is a versatile tool that allows you to erase mistakes easily, which is helpful as a beginner. You can also adjust pencil markings depending on the angle you use, the marks you make, and the heaviness of your hand. Play around with how you hold your pencil to see how that changes your marks.

Practice Making Different Marks

Some foundational marks you’ll want to practice as a new artist are hatching, cross-hatching, and stippling. These marks will help you convey depth and texture in your drawings. Hatching is when you create parallel lines or strokes in the same direction, with varying spacing and density of the lines. Cross-hatching involves layers of hatching lines applied in different directions, creating a mesh-like pattern. Stippling is a method of creating texture or shading by using small dots or stippled marks.

Study Your Surroundings

Observe your environment to find shapes that you’ll use in your drawings. Notice shadows, light, and lines. As you develop your technique and become a better artist, your observations of the world around you will also help you create art from your unique perspective.

Start with Light Lines, Then Add Detail

Light lines allow you to establish your drawing and make changes easily. Because light lines can be erased, you can edit your image to ensure proper arrangement and proportion. Gradually, you can add more and more complexity to your drawing after you’re satisfied with what your light version looks like.

Practice Frequently

Like anything you want to improve in, drawing takes lots of practice. Even if you don’t think you have the skills or you’re unsatisfied with your progress, drawing regularly will help you get better. Don’t let mistakes or imperfections keep you from continuing to learn and work on your art. After all, they are a natural part of any learning process.


Take Your Drawing to the Next Level

If you’re ready to take your drawing skills to the next level, contact Hodis Learning & Music to start art lessons with an expert art educator. Learn more or schedule your first session by calling or emailing us today.

by
Rachel Hodis
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Fun Summer Activities for Students

Fun Summer Activities for Students

Check out our list of fun summer activities for students to try in the months ahead!


Visit a Museum

A museum is a fun, interactive place to learn about new and interesting topics. Los Angeles locals who are interested in art will love the Museum of Modern Art. Science fans are sure to enjoy the California Science Center. And any young student will want to check out Kidspace Children’s Museum.

Plus, many of these museums have activities and events throughout the summer, so check their website to see what’s coming up. Be sure to bring your student ID with you on your museum visits this summer; most museums offer free or discounted admission to students! Check out more summer museum ideas.


See Live Music

Live music is fun, interactive activity for the whole family. Check out local concerts in the park, which are usually free. Oftentimes you can picnic too, so it’s a great way to get outside and enjoy the long summer days.


Learn a New Instrument

Summer is a great time to learn a new instrument! Research shows that learning a new instrument builds connections in the brain, enhances memory, and strengthens executive skills. There are also many non-musical benefits to learning a new instrument.

Try music lessons this summer with Hodis Learning & Music expert educators who make learning a new instrument fun and easy!


Take Art Classes

There are many benefits to an art education for children, like a chance for them to be creative and express themselves. Plus, creating art is fun! Whether you want to try watercolor painting or ceramics, you can take fun art lessons with Hodis Learning & Music’s expert educators.

If you’re an aspiring art student, take our art portfolio workshop where a professional artist will guide you through the art application process and help you build an outstanding portfolio.


Prepare for the Next Step in Your Education

We know, anything school-related probably doesn’t sound fun! But, when you prepare in advance, it can take the pressure off of what would otherwise be a stressful ordeal, like college entrance exams. Our Summer Programs include helpful courses like an SAT/ACT Prep Workshop and a Personal Statement Workshop, among others.

Our professional educators will guide you through these workshops at the best pace for you, so it never feels rushed or stressful. You’ll have individualized attention because workshops are just one-on-one; it won’t feel like you’re stuck in a classroom. We even have advanced workshops for aspiring music and art students who are applying to specialized schools and programs.

 

 

Have fun and learn this summer with Hodis Learning & Music! Call us or request a call back to learn more and book your first session today! to start your first session or sign up for one of our Summer Programs.

by
Rachel Hodis

The Importance of Encouraging Young Artists

Encouraging young artists to create art.

For young artists, creating is a chance to express creativity and try new things. In this digital age, art can also be a welcome break from screens. If your child loves art, it’s important to encourage them and help them grow as artists.


Why You Should Encourage Young Artists

  • It Helps Them Develop Confidence: As young artists continue to create, they’ll feel more confident in their abilities. This self confidence, even at a young age, carries into how they interact with peers, family members, and teachers.
  • It Helps Them Learn Commitment: It’s important that kids from a young age learn the importance of commitment and follow through. As they progress through school and life, tasks take more time, learning new skills doesn’t happen in a day, and there will be times when they might feel like giving up. Encouraging your young artist to create and finish their art teaches them how to follow through when they set their mind to something and commit to projects.
  • Art Is An Emotional Outlet: Art is also a way for children to express how they are feeling. Feelings and emotions that they might not know how to verbalize can come through in art. This can be therapeutic for processing and later identifying their emotions. It’s also healthy for children to get out negative emotions through a productive, safe activity.
  • Art Is Calming: Art can be incredibly relaxing for active young children. It’s a chance for them to slow down, think, and create.


How You Can Encourage Young Artists

  • Ask Them About Their Art: Show your interest in their work. This is also a good chance to bond with your young artist and maybe understand more about their feelings if they are using their art as an emotional outlet.
  • Display Their Work: Displaying their work also shows your interest. It can be a source of pride for your young artist and hopefully encourages them to create more. It can also be a chance for them to see their progress.
  • Set Aside Designated Time: Build art into your child’s regular schedule. Perhaps that’s a few times a week or every day. This gives your child something to look forward to and lets them know their art is worth focusing on.
  • Use Art As Positive Motivation: Art time can be a source of motivation for a child to finish homework or chores. It’s a positive activity that they can work towards and look forward to.
  • Sign Them Up For Lessons: Art lessons with a professional teacher can help your young artist improve their skills and even learn new mediums like painting or sculpture. It can also be a way to set aside designated time for them to work on their art, especially if you as a parent don’t have time to sit with them.


Expert, 1-on-1 Art Lessons

At Hodis Learning & Music, we provide art instruction for all ages and skill levels. Lessons are tailored to your student’s needs and skill level and take place conveniently in your home. Best of all, our rates are affordable and lessons can take place as frequently as you’d like. Schedule sessions for once a week or a couple times a month!

by
Drew M. Hodis

Exploring Different Art Mediums: Sculpture

Exploring Different Art Mediums: Sculpture.

Sculpture is a fascinating art medium that has been used for centuries to depict people, animals, and objects in three-dimensional form. This art form is not limited to just one material but rather can be made out of various materials like metal, stone, wood, and more. In this article, we will explore the diverse world of sculpture as an art medium.


Introduction to Sculpture as an Art Medium

Sculpture is a unique form of art that requires the artist to have a deep understanding of form, space, and material. The sculptor must have a vision of what they want to create and then use the material to bring that vision to life. Sculptures are created in various sizes and can be found in public spaces, museums, and art galleries. Sculpture has a rich history and has been used to create some of the world’s most iconic artworks.


Different Materials Used in Sculpture

Sculptures can be created using a variety of materials, and each material has its own unique properties that the artist can use to their advantage. The following are some of the most common materials used in sculpture:

Stone: One of the oldest materials used in sculpture is stone. It can be carved and chiseled to create intricate designs and shapes.

Metal: Metal sculptures can be created by welding or casting. They are durable and can withstand the elements, making them perfect for outdoor sculptures.

Wood: Wood is another popular material used in sculpture. It can be carved and shaped, and it also has a warm, natural aesthetic.

Clay: Clay is a versatile material that can be molded and shaped by hand. It is a popular material for creating ceramic sculptures.


The Process of Sculpturing

Creating a sculpture is a multi-step process that requires careful planning and execution. The following are some of the basic steps involved in creating a sculpture:

Sketching and Planning: Before beginning a sculpture, the artist must have a clear idea of what they want to create. They may sketch their ideas and make notes to help them plan out the project.

Choosing a Material: The artist must then choose the appropriate material for their project. This decision will impact the final look and feel of the sculpture.

Creating a Framework: Depending on the sculpture’s size and complexity, the artist may need to create a framework to support the sculpture.

Carving or Shaping: The artist will then begin to carve or shape the material, using tools like chisels, saws, and drills.

Finishing Touches: Once the basic form of the sculpture is complete, the artist will add the finishing touches, like sanding and polishing, to give it a smooth and refined appearance.


Conclusion

Sculpture is a dynamic and diverse art medium that has been used for centuries to create iconic works of art. From stone and metal to wood and clay, the materials used in sculpture are as varied as the works themselves. Creating a sculpture is a labor-intensive process that requires skill, patience, and creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just beginning, exploring the world of sculpture as an art medium is an exciting and rewarding experience.


Sign Up for Sculpture Lessons!

Take your sculpture skills to the next level with tailored art instruction at Hodis Learning & Music! Our expert art teachers have years of experience helping students of all ages and skill levels hone their artistic talent. Whether you’re a complete beginner or you’re hoping to cultivate a stellar art portfolio for art school admissions or a professional art career, we have the right art teacher for you! Call or email us to learn more or schedule your first session today.

Exploring Different Art Mediums Series

← Ceramics| Painting →

by
Drew M. Hodis

Exploring Different Art Mediums: Ceramics

Exploring Different Art Mediums: Ceramics.

Ceramics is a fascinating and ancient art medium that has been used for thousands of years to create both functional and decorative objects. From delicate porcelain teacups to rugged clay pots, ceramics come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and styles. In this blog post, we will explore the art of ceramics and the different techniques used to create ceramic objects.


History of Ceramics

Ceramics have been around for thousands of years, with some of the oldest ceramic objects dating back to 24,000 BC. Over time, different cultures developed their unique styles and techniques for creating ceramics, including the Chinese, Japanese, Greek, and Native American cultures. Ceramic objects were often used for practical purposes, such as cooking and storage, as well as for decorative purposes, such as vases and figurines.


Techniques for Creating Ceramic Objects

There are many techniques for creating ceramic objects, each with its unique characteristics and uses. Here are some of the most common techniques used in ceramics:

Hand Building

Hand building is a technique for creating ceramic objects by hand, without the use of a potter’s wheel. Specific hand building techniques include pinch pots, coiling, and slab building.

Wheel Throwing

Wheel throwing is a technique for creating ceramic objects on a potter’s wheel. The potter uses their hands and tools to shape the clay as it spins on the wheel, creating symmetrical objects such as bowls, cups, and vases.

Glazing

Glazing is a technique for applying a layer of liquid glass to the surface of a ceramic object. This glass layer can enhance the color and texture of the ceramic object, as well as making it more durable and waterproof.

Ceramics as an Art Medium

Ceramics can be used as an art medium to create a wide range of artistic works. Here are some ways in which ceramics can be used as an art medium:

Functional Ceramics

Functional ceramics are ceramic objects that are designed to be used for practical purposes, such as bowls, plates, and cups. Functional ceramics can be both beautiful and useful, combining aesthetic and practical qualities.

Sculptural Ceramics

Sculptural ceramics are ceramic objects that are created for their aesthetic value, rather than for any practical purpose. These ceramic art pieces can be abstract or representational, and can range in size from small figurines to large installations.

Ceramic Painting

Ceramic painting is a technique for decorating ceramic objects with paint or glaze. Painting can be used to add intricate designs and patterns to ceramic objects, making them more visually interesting and unique.


Conclusion

Ceramics are a versatile and exciting art medium that offer endless possibilities for artists to express their creativity and create beautiful and functional objects. With its rich history, wide range of techniques, and diverse applications, ceramics continue to captivate and inspire artists and art lovers around the world. Whether you’re interested in functional ceramics, sculptural ceramics, or ceramic painting, there is always something new to discover and explore in the world of ceramics.


Sign Up for Ceramics Lessons!

Take your ceramics skills to the next level with tailored art instruction at Hodis Learning & Music! Our expert art teachers have years of experience helping students of all ages and skill levels hone their artistic talent. Whether you’re a complete beginner or you’re hoping to cultivate a stellar art portfolio for art school admissions or a professional art career, we have the right art teacher for you! Call or email us to learn more or schedule your first session today.

Exploring Different Art Mediums Series

← Illustration| Sculpture →

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